Contribution from James P. Sampson, Jr., Florida State University

In the sections below, Sampson introduces a number of cases where ethical problems might arise, and he identifies the various ethical issues related to the use of ICT in the delivery of information, advice and guidance. He provides a listing of appropriate and achievable ethical standards, and sets out a number of proactive strategies to minimise potential ethical problems. Also provided are a number of hypothetical scenarios to stimulate discussion around the ethical principles and issues involved in each case, and the sort of preventive and corrective strategies that might be appropriate.

Sampson concludes that while ethical problems can never be eliminated, these problems can be avoided by the proactive efforts of practitioners. The old adage, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is particularly appropriate here. Engaging in a systematic implementation process provides an opportunity for planning that helps to avoid anticipated (Sampson,Carr, Panke, Arkin, Vernick, & Minvielle, 2004) and unanticipated ethical problems. The chances of avoiding ethical problems are further increased by having funding agents, policy makers, developers, practitioners, users, researchers, and evaluators work together to create and use ICT applications in a way that promotes sustainable ethical practice (Sampson, 1999).

Ethical delivery of helping resources and services

What is the fundamental ethical principle in the delivery of human services, including the delivery of information, advice and guidance services?

Ethical issues related to the use of ICT in information, advice and guidance

Ethical issues arising from the use of ICT in delivering services include the quality of available resources, the nature of practitioner intervention, and the inappropriate access to information about an individual.

Ethical standards related to the use of ICT in information, advice and guidance

The occurrence and severity of ethical problems can be reduced, though not entirely eliminated, by establishing ethical standards that are appropriate and achievable.

Proactive strategies to minimise potential ethical problems

Five strategies to minimise potential ethical problems are described and links to relevant website are given.

Case scenarios and critical questions

A number of scenarios of potential ethical problems are given to stimulate discussion of the underlying issues and possible preventive and corrective strategies.

Bibliographies

References